Saqr Hospital
General Description
Saqr Hospital is a government hospital established during the initial formation of the Union by the Ministry of Health. It is one of the early modern hospitals, providing a variety of specialized departments. The hospital is situated in the Seih Al Qusaidat area, a rocky plain surrounded by Samar and Ghaf trees and palm plantations. Initially, the hospital was located centrally in Ras Al Khaimah to serve various segments of society, including residents from Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah.
The hospital was constructed using modern building materials such as bricks, cement, reinforced concrete, and glass façade with aluminum wings. This design was implemented in 1977 by Engineering Sodeteg. The hospital spans a large area, featuring a five-story building with multiple wings that housed the specialties available during its early years.
Notably, Saqr Hospital was the primary location for births in Ras Al Khaimah from 1980 to September 9, 2018, serving the maternity sector for nearly 38 years. The hospital continues offering its original specializations and remains the main healthcare facility for patients across the emirate. Over the years, expansions and internal modifications were made to accommodate population growth and enhance therapeutic operations, while maintaining the original architectural design.
Criteria
01
Demonstrates a meaningful association with individuals, communities or events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of the UAE’s development.
02
Embodies the distinctive aesthetic, physical, or architectural attributes characteristic of the political, social, and economic trends of a particular period.
03
Contributes to the community’s sense of identity and enrichment of the UAE’s diversity, or is recognized as a place of collective memory for the UAE.
Statement of Significance
Saqr Governmental Hospital stands as a landmark of national importance in the United Arab Emirates, symbolizing the nation's commitment to accessible healthcare in the formative years following the union. Established during the initial period of the UAE’s unification, the hospital was integral to ushering in a new era focused on providing comprehensive health services to citizens and residents across all emirates, with a special emphasis on reaching remote and underserved areas.
Architecturally, the hospital reflects the UAE’s embrace of modern construction techniques that marked the country’s progress during the post-union period. Its expansive design, featuring left and right wings, a prominent glass façade, and aluminum panels for both aesthetic appeal and sun protection, stands as a testament to innovation and vision in the nation’s infrastructure development.
Beyond its physical presence, Saqr Governmental Hospital holds profound national significance as a center of collective memory and social advancement. For 38 years, it was the sole governmental facility for childbirth in Ras Al Khaimah, serving families from across the region and establishing itself as a vital institution in the lives of Emiratis. Its specialty clinics and surgical suites have further enabled the delivery of comprehensive healthcare, underlining the hospital’s enduring contribution to the nation’s well-being and its role in advancing the UAE’s standards of medical care.
